I don’t normally bring up these kinds of things, however this has been on the news a fair bit this morning. Ian Fletcher has returned to New Zealand from stints in England and Australia to head up the Government Communications Security Bureau (GSCB).

The process has come under intense scrutiny since it emerged Fletcher and Prime Minister John Key have known each other since childhood.

Key headhunted Fletcher to be director of the Government Communications Security Bureau in a phonecall after a short list of four candidates was rejected by Rennie in 2011.

Key has also stood by the process saying it was normal and it’s not relevant that Fletcher has no intelligence or military background. Fletcher was the only person interviewed by an SSC selected panel, which included former Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet boss Maarten Wevers.

The panel was aware that the Prime Minister and Fletcher knew each other and had spoken on the telephone, he said.

Key: “I forgot about phone call”

Meanwhile Key said he’s forgotten about the phone call that led to Fletcher applying to be the country’s top spy. But he appears to be confused about who first suggested Fletcher for the job.

Asked why he didn’t tell the full story last week, Key said: “I’d forgotten that at that particular time.”

What do you think..? Something suspicious going on, or is Key just forgetful? In my opinion he comes across as relatively credible, however he’s also well versed in what to say and how to say it and has used the “I forget” excuse previously…

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About Bridget Dunn

A real estate professional since 2012, Bridget is known for integrity, diplomacy and sincerity in all her dealings. She has first and foremost strived to be someone in whom her clients and colleagues can put their trust and faith. Treating clients like family is both a guiding principal and way of life for Bridget. She is dedicated to listening intently to her clients needs and providing the best possible advice, from how to get the best sales result for their home, to matching individuals and families with the properties that best suit their needs.